The first chords Jonny Buckland mastered came from the 1990 Happy Mondays track Kinky Afro. Born in the London Borough of Islington in 1977, he spent his formative years in Pantymwyn, Wales. He eventually transitioned from a student of mathematics and astronomy at University College London to the lead guitarist of the global rock group Coldplay.
Academic and Early Musical Roots
Before achieving international success, Buckland attended the Alun School in Mold between 1990 and 1995. During his youth, he took piano lessons at age seven and experimented with early computer music and rap. His interest in the guitar was sparked by his brother Tim, who introduced him to the sounds of Ride, Sonic Youth, and the Stone Roses. At University College London, he studied mathematics and astronomy, graduating with a 2:1 degree.
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In 1996, Buckland met Chris Martin at the university's Ramsay Hall. They began writing music together in 1997, later joined by Guy Berryman and Will Champion. Originally performing under names like Big Fat Noises and Starfish, the quartet eventually solidified as Coldplay. The band secured a contract with Parlophone in 1999, gaining rapid recognition following the release of their debut studio album, Parachutes, in 2000.
Instrumental Technique and Equipment
Buckland is characterized by a sparse, atmospheric approach to the guitar, favoring delay pedals and slide bars over conventional soloing. His primary instrument is a 1972 Fender Telecaster Thinline, though he has employed Gibson ES-335, Jaguar, and Jazzmaster models throughout his career. His pedalboard setup includes the Pro Co RAT, Electro-Harmonix Micro POG, and Strymon Timeline to generate his signature ringing timbre.
Collaborative Projects and Philanthropy
Beyond his work with Coldplay, Buckland has contributed guitar tracks to Ian McCulloch's 2003 album Slideling and Jay-Z's 2006 record Kingdom Come. He made film appearances in Shaun of the Dead and Slashed. His extracurricular activities include investing in the Noble Rot restaurant group and serving as a trustee for the Kitchen Club, alongside various charity music collaborations.
Fast facts
- Born: 1977, London Borough of Islington
- Education: Alun School, University College London
- Primary Instrument: Guitar
- Languages: English, Welsh
- Band: Coldplay
- Degrees: Mathematics and astronomy
Questions readers ask
What did Jonny Buckland study at university?
He earned a 2:1 degree in mathematics and astronomy from University College London.
Does Jonny Buckland provide vocals for Coldplay?
While he is primarily the lead guitarist, he provides backing vocals and performed lead vocals on the track Don't Panic.
Achievements
- Instruments: guitar, voice and audio effects unit
- Genres: alternative rock
